Strange ZIP codes in Alaska?

7/12/2012 10:06:07 PM

Maponics who provide data for many mapping tools, would appear to be the source of this – for as they state in their documentation:

ZIP Codes

This product includes the names and boundaries (and other attributes
as Maponics may choose to provide) for postal ZIP Codes in the United
States. Maponics’ proprietary process builds these polygons using
multiple data sources. The ZIP Code boundaries are based off of the
carrier route boundaries, using a combine/dissolve/extend approach.
Because there are cases where carrier routes do not exist, the ZIP
Code boundaries have been extended using a proprietary process so that
ZIP Codes cover the entire US. However, there are intentional holes in
the ZIP Code layer for major water and landmark areas. In all cases
where carrier routes exist, the ZIP Codes share the border line with
carrier routes.

There are some areas where there is not sufficient data to create ZIP
Code polygons. Where possible, Maponics has created temporary ZIP Code
areas and given the area a ZIP Code starting with the three digit ZIP
Code followed by either an “MH” or “MX” (ex. 901MH) to differentiate
area encompassed by water (“MH” ) or land (“MX”). Other such areas
appear as holes. Some unique ZIP Codes might appear as polygons (for
example, a university).

7/12/2012 6:00:39 AM

Zip codes were not allocated to these areas. When needed, MX will be substituted by numbers when the zip code is allocated for a portion of the “filler” area. See for example 99691 within the 996MX area.

Alaska is huge and very sparsely populated. No point in allocating zip codes for areas where no-one is going to send any mail.

Credit:stackoverflow.com‘

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Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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